Orthodox Church Welcomes 210 New Faithful in Kolwezi
More than 200 catechumens were baptized in Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting the continued growth of Orthodox Christianity in the region.
KOLWEZI, DRC — More than 200 catechumens were received into the Orthodox Church through Holy Baptism in Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of Congo, on December 27, 2025, marking another milestone in the Church’s continued growth in the region.
A total of 210 catechumens were baptized at the Church of St. George during a festive service held by the Metropolis of Katanga of the Patriarchate of Alexandria. Bsp. Kosmas of Konstantiana presided over the Divine Liturgy and administered the Sacrament of Baptism, assisted by local priests and deacons. Despite challenging weather conditions, the service drew a large gathering of faithful.
Following the Baptismal service, all newly baptized believers received Holy Communion for the first time. Year-end mass baptisms have become a longstanding tradition in the Democratic Republic of Congo, reflecting the steady expansion of Orthodoxy. In recent years, hundreds have joined the Church annually, with similar large-scale baptisms recorded in December 2022 and January 2023. Observers described the event as deeply moving, noting the participation of people of all ages.
Previously, the UOJ reported that thousands in Ivory Coast entered the canonical Orthodox Church after a year-long catechism.
